cleveland avenue corridor study: design...

Cleveland Avenue Design Guidelines 1

Cleveland Avenue Corridor Study:

Design Guidelines

DRAFTPrepared by:

Urban Studio, Inc.

for:South Fulton Medical Center

August 9, 2005


Public Framework 4

Street Features 6Parks & Trails 23Gateways 26

Private Framework 29

Single-Family 31Townhomes 35Multi-Family 40Office 46Retail/Mixed-Use 53Big Box 62

Table of Contents


Intention

These guidelines are organized into two major classifications:

Public FrameworkThe public framework consists of 1) Street Features; 2) Parks and Trails; 3) Gateways and isgenerally comprised of elements that are accessible to the public and located within the publicright-of-way.

Private FrameworkThe private framework consists of six major development types: 1) single-family residential; 2)townhomes; 3) apartments (multi-family); 4) retail/mixed-use; 5) office; 6) ’big-box’.

Design Guidelines Introduction

The purpose of the design guidelines is to promote future development that is consistent with theCleveland Avenue Corridor Masterplan. Generally, these design guidelines are intended to supportlocal and regional development goals that promote alternative transportation, mix of uses, pedestrianenvironments, traffic calming, active living,and greenspace.

Additionally, providing safe and comfortable environments for people involves incorporating CPTED(Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) strategies designed to provide ‘eyes on the street’and to remove opportunities for crime inherent in the building or site design.

These guidelines are intended to be implemented as an Overlay District based on the corridormasterplan study area. Overlay Districts are supplemental to the zoning district classificationsestablished in the City of Atlanta’s and the City of East Point’s Municipal Code. All developmentand building permits for lots located within any overlay district shall meet all of the requirementsof the base zoning district in which they are located and in addition, shall meet all of the require-ments of the overlay district applicable to the particular parcel. Where there are conflicts be-tween overlay district regulation and other regulations contained in this Code, the overlay regu-lation shall govern. Where the overlay district regulation is equally restrictive with other regula-tions in the Code, the overlay district regulation shall govern.

Public Framework

Private Framework


PublicFramework


Public Framework

Street Features

The street is the primary public domain and front door for private development. Careful consid-eration of the design of the following street features is important for enhancing the experientialquality of the corridor:

Medians, Crosswalks, Bulb-outs, Wayfinding, Lighting, Traffic Circles, Street Paving, Side-walks, Street Furniture, Public Art, Plazas, Utilities, Street Trees and Plantings

Parks and Trail Systems

Parks and trail systems promote both active and passive recreation throughout the corridor.They provide opportunities for physical activity and allow users to appreciate the naturalenvironment. The design guidelines provide recommendations for the following:

Pocket ParksLinear ParksNeighborhood ParksTrail Systems

Gateways

Gateways provide opportunities for pedestrian amenities, such as bus shelters, and create focalpoints for neighborhood or district entrances. There are three types of public gateways:

City GatewaysDistrict GatewaysNeighborhood Gateways

Street Features

Parks

Gateways


Street Features: Street Type- BOULEVARD

Boulevard showing four travel lanes and a center median

Boulevard showing four travel lanes and local lanes for retail access and parking


Street Features: Street Type- SECONDARY STREETS

Secondary street with two travel lanes and a center median park

Secondary street with two travel lanes and on street parking


Street Features: Street Type- RESIDENTIAL

Residential street with two travel lanes

Residential street with two travel lanes and on street parking


Street Features: Street Type- ALLEYWAY

Alleyway with one travel lane and rear driveway access

Alleyway with one travel lane, on street parking and rear driveway access


Street Features

3. Planted Median - Sod, groundcover, as well asornamental trees (where median width is greatenough), are planted to add visual interest, slow traf-fic, and provide a refuge zone for pedestrian cross-ing along the boulevard.

1. Clear Zone - Public area in the front setbackthat makes up the active sidewalk.

2. Street Trees - Broad canopy trees for shadeand continuity, should be trimmed to 7’ clearheight and kept from conflict with overhead lines.

4. Supplemental Zone - Generally re-ferred to as front yard, within privateproperty. Provides an opportunity for apublic zone for dining areas or outdoorplazas.

5. Street Light - Street lighting adds vis-ibility and safety and is interspersed withpedestrian scale lighting. The patternadds to continuity of the boulevard.

6. Furniture Zone - Area between backof curb and property line that containsstreet trees, street lighting, bike racks,newspaper stands, benches, and utilities.

7. Bulb-Out - Where possible, bulb-outsallow shorter distances for pedestriansto cross major streets. Parallel parkingis located behind bulb-out.

8. Ramp - Handicap accessible rampsare located where crosswalks meetcurbs. ADA compliant detectable warn-ing pavers should be installed at front oframping area.

9. Crosswalk - Visual and textural varia-tion at crosswalks distinguish pedestriancrossings and enhance experience.

Figure 1.1 - Street Features


Cleveland Avenue (Boulevard) 5-7' 10-15' Varies Ped/Ov Overstory

Secondary Streets 5-7' 10-15' 0-20' Ped/Ov Mixed Canopy

Residential Street 3-7' 5-15' 5-25' Ov Mixed Canopy

* Tree pits a minimum of 5’ x 12’, underplanted with liriope groundcover* Low- to Mid- Canopy trees to be planted under existing power lines

Pedestrian Light:McGraw-EdisonLuminiereGeneration AvenueCutoff (GAT-C) inblackPedestrian Light - 12’

Approved OverstoryTree Species:Allee ElmLacebark ElmZelkovaRed MapleNuttall OakShumard OakLegacy Maple

12’ height and 4”caliper minimum

Bollard:Elements Bike BollardPost in Raven by BRPEnterprises

Trash Receptacle:AshebrookeReceptacle in RavenBRP Enterprises

Bench:Cityview Cast End Bench inBlack by Sitescapes

Bike Rack:Manchester Bike Rack inRaven by BRP Enterprises

Overhead Light:King LuminiereK829 AuroraLuminiereDouble or Single Armblack - 25’

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Approved Mid-Canopy TreeSpecies:Trident MapleEastern RedbudFlowering DogwoodCrape MyrtleYoshino CherryFlowering Crabapple

9’ height and 3” caliperminimum

Street Features: Furniture Recommendations


Street Features Guidelines

Medians:

Purpose

Medians allow for space between traffic in opposite directions to ensure safety of drivers andpedestrians. Medians also provide a place for public art or gardens.

Application

• Should be well defined with a curb.• A continuous pattern of trees or landscape should tie each median together visually.• The medians may also include other elements such as fountains, artwork or gardens.

Median, landscaped and planted, with curb

Median running throughout residential boulevard

Planted median with street trees and lights


Crosswalks, Curbs and Curb Ramps:

Purpose:

Crosswalks, curbs and curb ramps allow pedestrians to safely cross the street while alsoproviding for proper street drainage.

Application:

All crosswalks will be prominently defined and adhere to ADA standards by use of one ormore of the following:• Pavers or textured and painted asphalt that imitates pavers.• Raised crosswalks.


• Electrical crossing signals.• If the crosswalk is not raised, a curb ramp down

to street level must be created in accordancewith ADA standards.

• All areas that have a sidewalk must also have acurb.

• Curbs shall allow proper drainage while at thesame time delineate the street from adjacentelements such as the sidewalks and medians.

• Curbs shall be no higher than 6” to allow peopleto easily step up or down when necessary.

Crosswalk and curb ramp in retail/ commercial district

Wide crosswalk extends through driveway

Raised crosswalk with pattern for slowing traffic



Bulb-outs and On Street Parking

Purpose:

Bulb-outs (curb extensions) are encouraged at intersections to reduce pedestrian crossingdistance and to discouage speeding through intersections.

Application:

• Bulb-outs can be used to separate and define on-steet parking areas as well asprovide opportunities for landscaping.

• Mid-block curb extensions allow for safer mid-block crossing for pedestrians.

Wayfinding:

Purpose:

Way-finding assists pedestrians and automobiles innavigation of the area.

Application:

• Signage shall be employed as the primary meansof way-finding

• All street name signs should be located in anintersection with an intersecting street sign.Where there are traffic lights, they should beoverhead.

• Distict way-finding signage shall be located inthe street furniture zone on marquees or posts.

• No way-finding signage shall be in the form of abillboard.

• No way-finding signage shall be illuminated.• Maps should be utilized to assist in wayfinding.

Planted bulb-out with onstreet parking in residential neighborhood

Wayfinding/ signage containing an area map



Lighting:

Purpose:

Proper illumination provides for a safe visibility for vehicles and pedestrians in dim or darkconditions. Lighting is a key element in safety and perception of safety for pedestrians. CEPTED(Crime Prevention through Environmental Design) guidelines suggest that proper lighting is akey component of crime prevention. In addition, lighting may highlight special street featuressuch as trees, art, or fountains for an enhanced visual experience.

Application:

STREET LIGHTING

• Shall aesthetically complement the design of the street features and surroundingdevelopment.

• Shall be at a pedestrian scale as well as service vehicles.• Should complement the architecture and scale of the redeveloped Cleveland Avenue

corridor.• Shall be located at the same distance from the street edge along the length of the

street.• Shall be integrated with all other streetscape elements including trees,

benches and paving.• Luminaries shall be translucent or glare free.• All areas adjacent to residential zones shall use diffusers and refractors.• Light poles shall be a minimum of 15’ away from street trees.

SPECIAL EFFECTS LIGHTING

• White string lighting in trees or the up-lighting of trees are permitted and encouragedin the street furniture zone.

• Light fixtures shall blend in with the surroundings.• Light fixtures shall be placed in the street furniture zone.• Light fixtures shall be water proof.• Light fixtures shall not interfere with the vision of the pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

Preferred Fixture:Generation Series AvenueLight Fixture by McGraw-Edison

Street light with local banner


Traffic Circles

Purpose:

Traffic circles allow for traffic calming without stopping the flow of traffic. Traffic circlesalso provide a place to feature public art, fountains, monuments or landscaping.

Application:

• The traffic circle should naturally cause the traffic to slow without the use oftraffic lights.

• Traffic circles should be clearly and simply designed.• Traffic circles may employ paving to delineate it from the rest of the street.• The center of the traffic circle should feature art or be landscaped/ hardscaped.


Street Paving:

Purpose:

Allows for smooth driving surfaces while simultaneouslydelineating areas for pedestrian use.

Application:

• Along the busiest pedestrian routes, specialstreet paving may be employed in part or sum.

• Pavers should be of the same design and colorthroughout the corridor. Stamped concrete maybe used as a substitute for pavers.

• In general, they should not be raised above streetlevel (except for raised crosswalks).

• The area of special paving should be clearlydelineated by borders.

Landscaped median with curb

Street paving denoting pedestrian crossing also used for traffic calming



Sidewalks:

Purpose:

Sidewalks allow for pedestrian access along the corridor and to the various uses in the corridor.Sidewalks also provide a place where the public and private interact and transition from one toanother through such venues as outdoor dining, bus stops, etc.

Application:

To provide a smooth transition, sidewalks within twenty feet of a residential district shall taper tofive feet wide. Residential, mixed-use, business or commercial district sidewalks shall be dividedinto three zones:

Supplemental Zone – This zone (also known as a frontyard) is adjacent to the primary building elevations andmay be 0’ - 25’ feet wide. Uses for the supplementalzone include outdoor eating areas, potted plants, or store/business amenities such as sandwich boards.

Clear Zone – This zone is adjacent to the supplementalzone and shall be between 5’ - 15’. The zone shallremain open at all times for pedestrian circulation.

Street Furniture Zone (or Planting Strip in residentialareas) – This zone is adjacent to the curb and shallprovide a place for all street furniture.

Example sidewalk zones in retail district

Supplemental zone with outdoor dining (left), clear zone (middle) and street furniture zone (right)

Sidewalk zones for single family lots



Street Furniture:

Purpose:

The street furniture zone provides a place for the varying public uses of the corridor such asbicycle parking, seating, bus shelters, trash receptacles, newspaper racks and bollards.

Application:

BICYCLE RACKS

• Permanently affixed in prominent locations throughout the corridor to encouragebicycle use.

• Shall be placed so that all bicycles are completely in the street furniture zone.• Shall be well designed and rust proof.• Minimum of one bicycle space for every twenty automobile spaces.

SEATING, BENCHES

• Should be grouped as much as possible and located along identified pedestrian nodes.• Planters designed for seating along the edge are permitted.• Should be well designed to blend in with other surroundings.• Benches should be free from advertising signage.• Seating for open air eating shall be placed in the supplemental zone and should be

designed to blend well with the surroundings.• Umbrellas for open air eating may only bear the name of the café or restaurant.

BUS SHELTERS

• Bus shelter locations shall be coordinated with mass transit stops and placed withinthe street furniture zone.

• Bus shelter design should be complementary to other street furniture elements andutilize glass for visibility.

• Bus shelters should be free from advertising or designed to allow minimal advertisingthat does not interfere with visibility or detract from aesthetics.

Bicycle rack in supplemental zone

Outdoor seating in public plaza

Bus shelter with seating, plantings and trash receptacles



TRASH RECEPTACLES

• Shall be placed by every seating area and significant gathering places.• Shall be permanently affixed.• Shall have a top to keep contents relatively dry.• Restaurants with outdoor seating shall provide additional trash receptacles near

seating.• These shall not be permanent, but shall not be easily moved.

BOLLARDS

• Should be designed to complement the streetscape.• Shall allow parked car doors to be fully opened without obstructing the swing by being

set back from the curb.• May be chained together for the safety of the pedestrian.• Removable bollards shall be used for admittance of service vehicles along primary

elevations.

NEWSPAPER RACKS

• Should be grouped together.• Shall not compromise the safety of vehicles by

obstructing the view.• Shall be completely in the street furniture zone.• Should complement other street furniture

elements.

Bollard/Bike Rack:Elements Bollard by BRPEnterprises

Bike Rack by BRPEnterprises

6’ Bench by Sitescapes Trash Receptacle by BRPEnterprises

Bollards in a residential neighborhood



Public Art:

Purpose:

Public art is used to activate spaces in the public realm and transform them into markers ordestinations.

Application:

• Should tie into the history of East Point or specifically Cleveland Avenue.• When possible, should come from a local artist.• May include water, seating, planting, decorative architectural elements or plaza space.• Shall not impair pedestrian circulation or vehicular traffic.

• Shall be well crafted and made of durableweatherproof materials.

• Shall be consistent with the redevelopment plan.• Shall be appropriate for all ages.

Community art and gateway for residential district

Public plaza with fountain

Mosaic in street furniture zone of sidewalk



Utilities:

Purpose:

Utilities provide for the safe and efficient use of thecorridor.

Application:

• All electrical wiring shall be underground.• Utility boxes, meters, man hole covers and fire

hydrants shall coordinate with street furniture.

Plazas

Purpose:

A plaza is a public gathering place that typically serves a building or group of buildings. A plazacan also act as a district gateway or center and provides opportunities for everyday activity aswell as special events.

Application:

• Plazas shall be accessible to all pedestrians and ADA compliant.• Plazas shall be constructed to provide for the safety of the users through use of

windows and doors into the plaza as well as street frontage where appropriate.• Plazas shall be properly lit to provide for the safety of the users.

Street Trees

Purpose:

Street trees provide for the physical and physiologicalhealth of the community and environment. Street treesalso identify and delineate areas within the corridor.

• Plazas are encouraged to include public art,fountains, moveable furniture, andlandscaping.

Landscaped plaza with seating and shade

Street trees in street furniture zone and supplemental zone



Landscaping and Planters

Purpose:

Landscaping and planters promote a healthy environmentfor the community and enhance the aesthetics of thecorridor.

Application:

• May be in the street furniture zone.• An individual business may put planting pots or

removable planters in their supplemental zone.• Should be used frequently around seating areas

but shall not interfere with circulation.• In warm weather they should be filled with

plants, and not left empty or with only soil.

Recommended street tree species: Allee Elm, Dynasty Elm, Zelkova, October Glory Red Maple, Legacy Sugar Maple, Shumard Oak

Application:

• Trees shall be planted in the street furniture zone.• Trees shall be planted a distance of 40’ apart.• Trees shall be a minimum of 15’ away from light poles.• Tree planting pits shall be used in all high pedestrian traffic areas.• Tree planting pits should have an outlet to allow for special lighting such as string

lights or up lighting.• If overhead power lines remain, street trees shall be planted that will not interfere

with the power lines, either through chosen species or placement.• Tree grate of 5’ x 12’ in special plazas.

• Tree grates shall be made of ductile iron and befactory painted. They shall allow fortree growth.

• Recommended street trees species include: AlleeElm, Dynasty Elm, Zelkova, October Glory RedMaple, Legacy Sugar Maple, Shumard Oak

Landscaped planters in street furniture zone


Parks and Trails Guidelines

Pocket Parks:

Purpose:

Pocket parks provide a connection while utilizing only a small area of space. They areappropriate where development is dense but there is still a need for a natural environment.They provide a place to sit and eat lunch or a place to exercise or revitalize.

Application:

• Elements may include trees, plantings, seating, exercise circuit equipment, playgroundequipment, water features, etc.

• Must be accessible to the public right of way through pedestrian circulation.

• Should be open to all users and face apublic right of way.

• Pocket parks should be well lit, but incorporate‘dark sky’ friendly lighting to avoid spill over intoadjacent properties.

Pocket park in residential neighborhood, with lighting

Pocket park with landscaping and seating

Pocket park


Parks and Greenspace Guidelines

Linear Parks:

Purpose:

Linear parks are established to provide opportunities for recreation and connections betweenand within districts. Linear parks are often established in medians or along edges of streetsand provide a pleasant alternative to typical sidewalk circulation by including green elementsand more pedestrian amenities.

Application:

• Elements may include trees, plantings, seating, exercise circuit equipment, playgroundequipment, water features, etc.

• Must be accessible to the public right of way through pedestrian circulation.

Neighborhood Parks:

Purpose:

Neighborhood parks provide a local place to congregateand recreate. They also contribute to a neighborhood’sidentity.

Application:

• All new neighborhoods should provide a park oraccess to another neighborhood park.

• All parks shall follow all safety codes for allequipment.

• Parks shall be properly lit for evening use and/orbe closed off after dark.

• Should face a public right of way.• May be established where other development is

not feasible due to topology or other constraints.

Linear park in retail district with benches

Neighborhood park containing childrensplay area for public use


Parks and Greenspace Guidelines

Trail Systems:

Purpose:

The trail system highlights the natural environment and promotes active recreational uses suchas bicycling, walking or jogging throughout the corridor.

Application:

• The trail system shall follow all state codes for building and maintaining trails adjacentto stream beds.

• No motor vehicles of any kind are permitted on the trail system, with the exception ofmaintenance vehicles.

• Way-finding is the only type of signage permitted on the trail.• The design of the trail will minimize impacts on the natural environment.• The design of the trail incorporates amenities such as rest areas, picnic areas, and

water fountains.

Typical street section with trail system at right

Parkway with continuous bicycle/ walking path and tree plantings

Trail system through residential neighborhood park with bollards and lighting


Gateway Guidelines

City Gateway:

Purpose:

Define city limits and establish identity for the corridor.

Application:

• City gateways may use, but are not limited to,trees, landscaping, art, signage, paving or otherelements in their design.

• City gateways must be maintained by the city.• If the gateway is accessible, it must comply with

ADA.

Gateways:

Gateways help to define the boundaries of neighborhoods or districts. They convey the identityand character of a community. The gateways in the Cleveland Avenue corridor project will:

• Visually identify neighborhoods, districts, or city limits.• Exhibit the natural attributes of the area.• Provide opportunties for pedestrian amenities, signage, public art, and landscape

features.

City gateway used as directional

City gateway with seating and shelter


Gateway Guidelines

District Gateways:

Purpose:

District Gateways create focal points for district entrances and provide opportunities forpedestrian amenites such as bus shelters and seating. District gateways provide a place tohighlight the unique character of the district.

Application:

• All district gateways must be approved by the Community Development or PlanningDepartment.

• District gateways may use, but are not limited to, trees, landscaping, art, signage,paving or other elements in their design.

• District gateways must be maintained by the cityor a business oganization.

• If the gateway is accessible, it must comply withADA.

.Neighborhood Gateways:

Purpose:

Neighborhood gateways should reflect the distinctivenessof each neighborhood and also fit into the larger contextof the District or City. Neighborhood gateways conveyto the user the unique place they are entering.

Proposed gateway on Cleveland Avenueas shown in Masterplan; to Buggyworksand Main Street pedestrian bridge


Application:

• All neighborhood gateways must be approved by the Community Development orPlanning Department.

• Neighborhood gateways may use, but are not limited to, trees, landscaping, art,signage, paving or other elements in their design.

• Neighborhood gateways must be maintained by the City or neighborhood organization.• If the gateway is accessible, it must comply with ADA.

Gateway Guidelines

Landscaping and fountain denote a neighborhood gateway

Brick signage with landscaping and seating serve as neighbhorhood gateway

Gateway from parking to multi-family housing


PrivateFramework


Private Framework

Retail/ Mixed Use

Big Box

OfficeSingle Family

Townhome

Apartment


Single Family: Site Guidelines

Purpose:

The site guidelines for single-family provide a framework for design of detached dwelling unitsof a moderate density with a minimum lot area of 4000 SF and a minimum frontage of 40’. Thesite design guideline for the single family residential district sets up a uniformity which allows fordiversity in building and site type. The guideline encourages appropriate interaction between thepublic and private domain. It outlines proper use of the lot with respect to the sidewalks andaccessibility, gates and fencing, yard setbacks, vehicular access, and accessory buildings.

Site Guidelines

Site Diagram: yard zones for single-family Site Diagram: typical site layout for single-family



Sidewalks and Accessibility

Purpose:

Sidewalks in residential areas provide a safe and comfortable walking surface for pedestrians.Sidewalks promote pedestrian activity and connect residences to nearby recreation and ser-vices.

Application

• Residential right-of-ways shall include sidewalks with a minimum clear zone of 5’.• All sidewalks at intersections shall comply with ADA regulations.• Sidewalks shall have a continuous planting strip of 3’-5’ in width.• Entrance shall be connected to the sidewalk.

Gates and Fencing

Purpose:

Gates and fencing establish boundaries between public,semi-public, and private areas. Fencing can also be usedas privacy screening between residences or between dif-ferent land uses.

Application:

• Front yard: Fences and walls located within thefront yard setback area shall not exceed 4’ inheight.

• Side and rear yard: Fences and walls locatedalong side and rear yards shall not exceed 6’ inheight.

• Should be constructed of ornamental metal, orna-mental masonry, wood, and other ornamentalmaterials. No chain link fencing in front or sideyard areas.

Single Family homes with street trees and landscaped front yard

Fencing used to establish boundaries


Vehicular Access

Purpose:

Vehicular access within the single family development provides connection to private parking.

Application:

PARKING AND DRIVEWAYS

• Minimum driveway width of 9’, mimimum shared driveway width of 12’.• Rear access through alleyway is encouraged.• Shared driveways are permitted with approval of the Planning Department.• Driveways shall be paved.

ALLEYWAY

• 10’ – 18’ with shared/on street parking and lighting.

Yard Setbacks

Purpose:

The yard setbacks allow for uniform spacing within the single family district, emphasize thepublic and private boundaries, and create visual continuity in the neighborhood.

Application:

• Front yard setback 6’ – 20’.• Setbacks for infill or renovations should generally fall within the range of existing

setbacks on both sides of the street.• Side yard setbacks 5’ minimum, 10’ maximum.• Corner lot setbacks 8’ minimum.


Alley providing rear access to garage

Accessory Buildings

• Side, rear loaded garages or sheds.• Garages shall not face the public right-of-way

with the exception of garages located in the rearyard.

• Carports shall not be allowed in the front yardzone and when utilized in the side yard, mustextend from the principal structure as an archi-tectural feature.

• Stand alone carports are prohibited in the frontand side yard zones.

• The top edge of a fence must be along a line that is either horizontal or substantiallyparallel to grade.


Single Family: Building Guidelines

Purpose:

The Single Family Residential design guideline allows for individual architectural expressionwithin the corridor while still maintaining compatible design throughout the complex. The guide-line promotes quality materials and appropriate architecture within the Cleveland Avenue corri-dor. Architecturally, the Single Family Residential guidelines evoke a feeling of communitythrough the use of such elements as porch and entrance, fenestration and corners, material andcolor, scale and massing, and building numbers.

Fenestration and Corners

• Elements around windows,such as balconies,shutters and sills, are permitted.

• All sides with street frontages should includesimilar features as the front elevation.

Material and Color

• High level of craftsmanship for all details andfinish.

• All exterior cladding shall be quality buildingmaterials. Plain CMU, sheet metal and othernon-traditional façade materials are not permitted.

• When remodeling historic structures, care shouldbe taken to match original materials and finishes.

Building GuidelinesScale and Massing

• Roofs may have dormers, gables, or similarvariations in roof planes in order to break up theroof mass.

• Generally, roofs should have a pitch that isconsistent with and supportive of local architec-tural styles.

• Scale and mass of an addition shall maintainthat of the original structure.

• Infill or remodeled structures will not visuallyoverwhelm neighboring structures.

Building Numbers

• Clearly visible from the sidewalk.• Minimum of 6” in height.

Axonometric View of Single-Family homes with alley access

Porch and Entrance

• A front entrance or porch should not be permanently or fully enclosed.

• Detailing on front entrances and porches shouldbe typical of the style and period of the resi-dence.


Townhomes: Site Guidelines

Purpose:

The site guidelines for townhomes provide a framework for design of attached dwelling units ofa moderate density with a minimum lot area of 1875 SF and a minimum frontage of 25’. The sitedesign guideline for townhomes establishes a consistent delineation between the public and pri-vate realms. It provides a framework for denser development while still recognizing the needsof the individual homeowner. The townhome guideline promotes safety within the developmentwhile maintaining the residential feel of the development. It takes into account sidewalks andaccessibility, gates and fencing, yard setbacks, vehicular access, and accessory buildings.

Sidewalks and Accessability

Purpose:

Provide safe and comfortable pedestrian circulation to thepublic sidewalk, trail systems, or on-site amenities.

Application:

• Continuous clear zone of 5’minimum.• Planting strip of 5’minimum containing lighting

and street trees.• Entrance connected to sidewalk.

Site Guidelines

Site Diagram:typical layout of townhouses with detached garagesSite Diagram: yard zones for townhouses with detached garages



Gates and Fencing

Purpose:

Gates and fencing establish boundaries between public, semi-public, and private areas.Fencing can also be used as privacy screening between residences or between different landuses.

Application:

• Front yard: Fences and walls located within the front yard setback area shall notexceed 4’ in height.

• Side and rear yard: Fences and walls located along side and rear yards shall notexceed 6’ in height.

• Should be constructed of ornamental metal, ornamental masonry, wood, and otherornamental materials. No chain link fencing in front or side yard areas.

Yard Setbacks

Purpose:

The yard setbacks allow for uniform spacing within thedistrict, emphasize the public and private boundaries, andcreate visual continuity in the neighborhood.

Application:

• Front yard setback including stoop 4’ – 10’.• Corner lot side yard setback 5’ minimum.

Site Diagram: yard zones for townhouses with interior parking Site Diagram: typical layout of townhouses with interior parking

• The top edge of a fence must be along a line thatis either horizontal or substantially parallel tograde.



Vehicular Access

Purpose:

To provide for access to private parking while maintaining a front yard free from curb cuts andstreet facing garages, townhouse developments shall provide alleys and rear loaded garages.

Application:

PARKING AND DRIVEWAYS

• Interior or exterior parking garage.• Rear access to driveway through alley.

ALLEYWAY

• 10’ – 18’ with shared/on-street parking.

Accessory Building

• Detached garages or sheds permitted in rearyards.

Landscaped frontyard (supplemental) zoneAn alley gives access to garage and

rear entrance


Townhomes: Building Guidelines

Purpose:

The design guideline for townhomes are meant to create an attractive and inviting development.The design of the homes should encourage neighborly activity within a close community but stillallow for privacy and diversity. The guideline will ensure quality construction and craftsmanstandards for these elements; stoop and entrance, fenestration and corners, material and color,scale and massing and building numbers.

Building Guidelines Stoop and Entrance

• A front entrance or stoop should not be perma-nently or fully enclosed.

Fenestration and Corners

• Elements around windows, such asbalconies, shutters and sills, are permitted.

• All sides with street frontages should includesimilar features as the front elevation.

Axonometric view of townhomes with detached garages

Townhome entrance connects to sidewalk


Building Numbers

• Clearly visible from the sidewalk.• Minimum of six inches in height.

Scale and Massing

• 2 - 3 story.• On corner units, the secondary elevation shall attain a similar level of detail as the

primary elevation.

Townhomes: Building Guidelines

Material and Color

• High level of craftsmanship for all details and finishes.• Color should be architecturally appropriate and not detract from adjacent properties.

Axonometric view of townhomes with interior garages

Townhomes with variation in facade treatment

Example townhome development


Multi-family: Site Guidelines

Site Guidelines:

Purpose:

The site guidelines provide a framework for design of multi-family dwelling units of a medium tohigh density that is consistent with the goals of the Cleveland Avenue Corridor Masterplan. Thesite guidelines promote street orientation and pedestrian circulation on and off site.


Purpose:

Provide safe and comfortable pedestrian circulation to thepublic sidewalk, trail systems, or on-site amenities.

Application:

• Minimum continuous clear zone of 5’.• Minimum 5’ planting strip of 5’ containing

lighting and street trees.• Multiple entrances connected to public

sidewalk.• Site must include interior sidewalk that

serves parking lot and building.

Site Diagram: yard zones for apartments Site Diagram: example site layout for apartments



Yard Setbacks

Purpose:

The yard setback allows the building to be visually con-nected with the public realm and still maintain its privatecharacter.

Application:

• Front setback or supplemental zone 6’ – 25’.• Side setback of 6’.

Gates and Fencing

Purpose:

Gates and fencing establish boundaries between public, semi-public, and private areas. Fencingcan also be used as privacy screening between residences or between different land uses.

Application:

• Front yard: Fences and walls located within the front yard setback area shall notexceed 4’ in height.

• Side and rear yard: Fences and walls located along side and rear yards shall notexceed 6’ in height.

• Should be constructed of ornamental metal, ornamental masonry, wood, and other

ornamental materials. No chain link fencing infront or side yard areas.

• The top edge of a fence must be along a line thatis either horizontal or substantially parallel tograde.

Planting strip (far left), clear zone, and supplemental zone (far right)

Gate provides a boundary betweenpublic and private


Screening and Buffering

Purpose:

Screening and buffering maintains the attractiveness of the building while providing for itsfunctionality.

Application:

• Areas for outdoor storage, truck parking, trash collection or compaction, loading, orother such uses shall not be visible from public or private rights-of-way and shall notbe located within 20’ of any public street or sidewalk.

• Where parking abuts a street, a decorative masonry wall, evergreen hedge screen of30” - 42” in height and a minimum of 12” in width shall be established in a 8’ mini-mum planted buffer.

• A 20’ landscaped area is required when adjacent to single-family zones. In additionwhere property abuts a single family zone, a 6’ - 7’ privacy/ screening fence or wallshall be constructed.

Vias

Purpose:

Vias connect pedestrians to parking, site amenities, or other building entrances and can encour-age outdoor activity on the site.

Application:

• Use specially designed elements including paving, lighting, landscape and streetfurniture.


Landscaping

Purpose:

Landscaping enhances the experiential quality of the corridor by providing a balance of naturalgreenscape against building and hardscape elements. In addition, landscape can be used todefine and improve the aesthetics of boundaries, gateways, entrances, and special site features.

Application:

• 25% of the site, at a minimum, must be coveredwith landscape or permeable paving materials.

• Landscape design should include a varietyof deciduous, evergreen trees, shrubs andflowering plant species well suited to the localclimate.

• Where feasible, existing healthy trees onthe site of greater than 6” DBH should beincorporated into the required landscapingof the site.

• Landscape should be designed so that 80 %coverage occurs within five years.

Landscaped supplemental zone provides privacy

Plantings and seating enhance public realm



Parking

Application:

• Parking must be to the side or rear of the primary elevation and must not break theplane of the primary elevation.

• Parking decks and garages are permitted, but must use well designed architecturalelements that are compatible with the adjacent structure on all elevations that faceeither public right of ways or other buildings. They should appear to be a horizontallystoried building.

• There shall be a pedestrian walkway which connects the surface parking lot to thepublic sidewalk.

• One 2’x 6’ minimum bicycle parking space per 20 parking spaces.• Parking areas must be evenly lit and equal to one-half footcandle of light minimum.

• Light spillage onto adjacent propertiesshall be reduced by a cut-off luminaire with amaximum of ninety degrees illumination.

• There shall be a continuous landscape bufferwith a minimum of 8’ between parking areasand the street. An 8’ buffer shall be establishedwhere parking abuts other property lines.

• Parking lots with fifty or more spaces shall bedivided into separate areas with minimumlandscaping of 10’. Walkways may cutthrough the landscaping.

• A credit for shared parking in mixed-use develop-ments for up to 25% of the required spaces shallbe allowed with approval from the PlanningDepartment.

• One driveway for each development is permittedwith the exception of properties with more thanone front yard which may have two driveways.

• A minimum of 7% of the parking lot must belandscaped.

• One landscaped median and one large canopytree must be included for every 7 parkingspaces.

Parking behind apartment complex

Parking deck in core of buliding


Multi-family: Building Guidelines

Building Guidelines:

Purpose:

Building guidelines provide elements that allow for a multi-family residence which has a humanscale and sensibility to its design.

Entrances

• Entrances shall be connected to the sidewalk and street.• Entrances shall be landscaped.• Awnings, signs, or recessed entrances shall be integrated into the design of the

building.

Corners

• All sides with street frontages shall offer similartreatments as the front elevation.

Material and Color

• All façades shall be of quality exterior gradematerials such as but not limited to wood, andmasonry. Colors should not detract from nearbystructures.

• Predominant exterior building materials as wellas accents shall not include the following:smooth face CMU, metal siding.

Scale and Massing

• The height of the buildings may be up to 45’.• Large blank walls are not permitted.• Setbacks in the façade creating architectural

interest or courtyards are encouraged.• Delineating elements which separate the ground

level from the upper level are encouraged.

Axonometric view of multifamily development

Fenestration

• Opaque, smoked and reflective glass should be used for accents only.


Multi-family: Signage Guidelines

Entry Signage:

• Monument signs shall not be internally lit but canhave spot lights from the ground.

• The design and materials of monument signsmust be of the highest quality and be approvedby the City.

• May also be a painted sign, flat sign, fin sign, orawning.

Signage Guidelines:

Purpose:

Signage identifies businesses and aids in wayfinding. The purpose of signage regulation is toreduce visual clutter and provide consistency in quality, number, and size. Businesses are en-couraged to adhere to the principle of "less is more" and provide balance or highlight the archi-tectural features of the building with signage.

Entry signage and neighborhood gateway

Building Numbers:

• Above the primary elevation entrance.• Clearly visible from the street and sidewalk.• Minimum of 6” in height.

Entry signage


Office: Site Guidelines

Yard Setbacks

Purpose:


Application:

• Front yard (supplemental zone) setback 25’ max.• Side setback of 6’.• No structures over 12” in width and 36” in

height may be placed within the sight triangle.Site Guidelines:

Purpose:

The office site guideline creates an interface between the public and private realm which simul-taneously serves the corridor and individual business. The site guideline establishes consistentlot usage throughout which contributes to the uniformity and aesthetic appeal of the streetscape.The guideline will consider sidewalks and accessibility, front yard, vias, landscaping, screeningand buffering and parking.


Purpose:

Sidewalks ease pedestrian circulation to the amenities in the development as well as the wholecorridor.

Vias

Purpose:

Vias connect pedestrians to parking, site amenities, or otherbuilding entrances, and can encourage outdoor activity onthe site.

Application:

• Be visually connected to the buildings throughstore front windows and or entrances orrestaurant seating.

• May allow enough room for open air restaurantseating.

• Use specially designed elements includingpaving, lighting, landscape and street furniture.

Site Diagram: yard zones for offices

Application:

• Continuous clear zone of 10’as minimum.• Planting strip of 5’ minimum containing

lighting and street trees.• Building Entrance connected to sidewalk.• Site must include interior sidewalk that serves

parking lot and building.


Landscaping

Purpose:

Landscaping enhances the experiential quality of the corridor by providing a balance of naturalgreenscape against building and hardscape elements.

Application:

• 25% of site must be covered with landscape or permeable paving materials.• Landscape should be designed so that 80% coverage occurs within five years.• Landscape design should include a variety of deciduous, evergreen trees, shrubs and

flowering plant species well suited to the local climate.• Where feasible, existing healthy trees on the site of greater than 6” DBH

should be incorporated into the required landscaping of the site.



Purpose:

Screening and buffering maintains the attractiveness of thebuilding while providing for its functionality.

Application:

• A 25’ landscaped area must buffer buildingsadjacent to residential zones. In addition whereproperty abuts a single family zone, a 6’ - 7’privacy/ screening fence or wall shall be con-structed.

• Areas for outdoor storage, truck parking, trashcollection or compaction, loading, or other suchuses shall not be visible from public or privaterights-of-way and shall not be located within 20’of any public street or sidewalk.

• No chain link fencing.• Where parking abuts a street, a decorative

masonry wall or evergreen hedge screen of30”- 42” in height and a minimum of 12” inwidth shall be established in an 8 feet minimumplanted buffer.



Parking

Application:

• Parking must be to the side or rear of the primary elevation and must not break the planeof the primary elevation.

• Parking decks and garages are permitted, but must use architectural elements that arecompatible with the adjacent structure on all elevations that face either public right ofways or other buildings. They should appear to be a horizontally storied building withactive ground level uses.

• A pedestrian walkway must connect the parking lot to the public sidewalk.• Parking areas must be evenly lit and equal to one-half footcandle of light.• Light spillage onto adjacent residential properties shall be reduced by a cut-off luminaire

with a maximum of ninety degrees illumination.

Site Diagram:example site layout for offices• There shall be a continuous landscape buffer with

a minimum of 8’ between parking areas andthe street. An 8’ buffer shall be establishedwhere parking abuts other property lines.

• Parking lots with fifty or more spaces shall be di-vided into separate areas with minimum 10’landscape strip. Walkways may cut through thelandscaping.

• One driveway for each development is permitted.Properties with more than one front yardmay have two driveways. Joint curb cuts are en-couraged.

• One large canopy tree and a planted medianshould be planted for every 7 parking spaces,within interior and perimeter planting areas.


• One 2’x 6’ minimum bicycle parking space per 20parking spaces.

Parking deck with retail at street level


Office: Building Guidelines

Fenestration

Purpose:

The proportions and design of building openings are inte-gral in connecting the building to the pedestrian. The win-dows should also be used for the business to communicateto the public with storefront displays that provide visualinterest to the pedestrian.

Application:

• Windows should comprise from 25% to50% of façades higher than ground levelwhich are visible from public right-of-ways.

• Offices shall have a minimum of 50%glass on the ground front elevation.

• Traditional elements around windows arepermitted such as balconies, shutters and sills.

• No signage shall be adhered to the windows,permanently or temporarily, except the name ofthe business and street address. The name andstreet address shall take up no more than 10% ofthe window to which it is adhered.

• Opaque and smoked glass should be used foraccents only.


Purpose:

The building guidelines provide elements that allow for an office development which has a hu-man scale and sensibility to its design.

Entrances:

Purpose:

The pedestrian entrance to the building shall portray the business identity while maintaining aninviting scale to the pedestrian. Awnings or canopies may be used for this purpose.

Application:

• All buildings shall have their principle entrance on the primary elevation and shallprovide a direct connection to the sidewalk and street.

• Restaurants may have a series of doors thatopen to provide open air dining.

• Awnings, signs, or recessed entrances shall beintegrated into the design of the building.

• Recessed entrances must not exceed 50% ofthe storefront width nor 10’ in depth.

• Service entrances or loading docks shall bedesigned to have minimum impact on theprimary elevation. Wherever possible, theyshall not be located on the primary elevation.

Axonometric view of an office development



Material and Color

Purpose:

Quality is an important element of construction. Substandard materials and craftsmanship arenot permitted. The greatest amount architectural detail and interest shall be at the pedestrianlevel. The following standards are the minimum all projects should adhere to:

Application:

• High level of craftsmanship for all details and finishes.• Color should be architecturally appropriate and not detract from adjacent properties.• For storefront designs, attention shall be paid to the details of the window design in

order to promote a connection to the pedestrian.• For storefront designs, attention shall be paid to the details of the window design in

order to promote a connection to the pedestrian.• Predominant exterior building materials as well as accents shall not include the

following: smooth face CMU, metal siding.

Scale and Massing

Purpose:

Attention to scale and massing is important when considering both the impact of the building

Corners

Purpose:

On corner lots, these corners give prominence to the intersection and add architectural interestwhile addressing the context.

Application:

• Project up to one additional floor higher than adjacent buildings.• Have awnings, balconies, or signs in keeping with the design guidelines.• Have a higher level of detail than any other corner on the building.

from the street as well as the pedestrian experience at thesidewalk. From the street, the building should appear bal-anced with its surrounding context of buildings and land-scape. From the sidewalk, the building should consider thehuman scale, particularly at the ground level where pedes-trians are largely impacted.

Application:

• Major horizontal elements of adjacent buildingssuch as awnings, cornices, etc. on theprimary elevation, shall be at the same heightwherever possible.

• The height of the buildings may be up to 50’.• When buildings are within 200’ of a single-family

residence, the building may be up to 35’ in height.• Elevations that are seen from a public right of

way must have architectural interest. Largeblank walls are not permitted.

• On the primary elevation, an architectural rhythmof 15’ to 30’ should be established.

Building and trees form outdoor room


Awnings

Purpose:

Awnings allow a business to further define their identity as well as provide shelter from theelements to pedestrians. They add design interest to the streetscape, protect displays from over-exposure to the sun, and help cool the building.


Application:

• Awnings or projecting signs above 7’ may bepermitted into the right of way so long as they donot interfere with trees, utilities, transit sheltersor other street furnishings.


• Awnings shall have a framed opening. Theyshould be architecturally consistent with the restof the building.

• Adjacent awnings or awnings along the sameblock should be at the same height whereverpossible.

• Awnings shall not interfere with pedestrianmobility.

• Awnings shall be retractable or open sided.• Vinyl awnings are discouraged.• Internally lit or worn awnings are not permitted.

Variation in awning type

• On the primary elevations of buildings over 1 story, the ground floor shall be architec-turally distinguished from upper floors to form both an architectural base and to createan intimate scale for the pedestrian.

• Varied roof forms and cornices may be employed to express the uniqueness of eachdesign.

• The roofs on corner lots should emphasize and enhance the corner.


Office: Signage Guidelines

Signage:

Application:

• Monument signs shall not be internally lit but can have spot lights from the ground.• The design and materials of monument signs must be of the highest quality such as

brick and be approved by the city.• Can be a painted sign, flat sign, fin sign or awning.• On buildings taller than one story, the sign shall be located beneath the second floor.

On one-story buildings, the signs shall be located between the eave line and top of theentrance door.

• Small approved directional signs may be used only for communicating parking orentrances/exits.

• Signage shall be incorporated into the building design.• The business name or address can be permanently adhered or painted on glass

windows provided that it takes up a maximum of 10 % of the glass to which it isadhered.

• Signs shall not obscure architectural detailing such as cornices, friezes, columns,

Signage Guidelines:

Purpose:


Building Numbers

Application:

• Above the primary elevation entrance.• The business name or address can be permanently adhered or painted on glass

windows provided that it takes up a maximum of 10% of the glass to which it isadhered.


windows, door openings or trim.• One monument sign that is a maximum of 4.5’

high by 5’ wide is permitted by free standingbuildings, all other signs must be approved.

• Billboards of any size, type or fashion will not bepermitted.

• All signage must be permanent except forsandwich boards which are permitted in thesupplemental zone.

Office signage is enhanced with landscaping


Retail/ Mixed Use: Site Guidelines

Yard Setbacks:

Purpose:


Application:

• Front yard (supplemental zone) setback 0 -20’.• Side Yard, Rear Yard setback of 6’.• No structures over 12” in width and 36” in

height may be placed within the sight triangle.

Site Guidelines:

Purpose:

The site guideline for retail and mixed use buildings creates a streetscape to give the corridor asense of place. This is imperative for the success of the corridor as a whole as well as theindividual business. The guideline will address sidewalks and accessibility, front yard, vias, land-scaping, screening and buffering and parking.


Purpose:

Sidewalks ease pedestrian circulation to the amenities in the development as well as the wholecorridor.

Landscaped path to parking deck

Site Diagram: yard zones for retail/mixed-use

Application:

• Continuous clear zone of 10’as minimum.• Planting strip of 5’ minimum containing lighting

and street trees.• Building Entrance connected to sidewalk.• Site must include interior sidewalk that serves

parking lot and building.



Purpose:

Screening and buffering maintains the attractiveness of the building while providing for itsfunctionality.


Landscaping

Purpose:

Landscaping enhances the experiential quality of the corridor by providing a balance of naturalgreenscape against building and hardscape elements.

Application:

• 25% of site must be covered with landscape or permeable paving materials.• Landscape should be designed so that 80% coverage occurs within five years.• Landscape design should include a variety of deciduous, evergreen trees, shrubs and

flowering plant species well suited to the local climate.• Where feasible, existing healthy trees on the site of greater than 6” DBH should be

incorporated into the required landscaping of the site.

Vias

Purpose:

Vias connect pedestrians to parking, site amenities, or other building entrances, and can encour-age outdoor activity on the site.

Application:

• Be visually connected to the buildings through store front windows and or entrancesor restaurant seating.

• May allow enough room for open air restaurant seating.• Use specially designed elements including paving, lighting, landscape and street

furniture.

Gas station with landscaped buffer

Application:

• A 20’ landscaped area must buffer buildingsadjacent to residential zones. In addition whereproperty abuts a residential zone, a 6’ - 7’privacy/ screening fence or wall shall be constructed.

• Areas for outdoor storage, truck parking, trashcollection or compaction, loading, or othersuch uses shall not be visible from public orprivate rights-of-way and shall not be locatedwithin 20’ of any public street or sidewalk.


masonry wall or evergreen hedge screen of30” - 42” in height and a minimum of 12” inwidth shall be established in a 8’ minimumplanted buffer.


Parking

Application:


• Parking decks and garages are permitted, but must use well designed architectural ele-ments that are compatible with the adjacent structure on all elevations that face eitherpublic right of ways or other buildings. They should appear to be a horizontally storiedbuilding with active ground level uses.

• Joint curb-cuts are encouraged for access to adjacent lots.• There shall be a pedestrian walkway which connects the surface parking lot to the

public sidewalk.

• Parking areas must be evenly lit and equal toone-half footcandle of light.

• Light spillage onto adjacent residential propertiesshall be reduced by a cut-off luminaire with amaximum of ninety degrees illumination.

• There shall be a continuous landscape bufferwith a minimum of 8’ between parking areas andthe street. An 8’ buffer shall be establishedwhere parking abuts other property lines.

• Parking lots with fifty or more spaces shall bedivided into separate areas with minimum 10’landscape strip. Walkways may cut through thelandscaping.

• One driveway for each development is permitted.Properties with more than one front yardmay have two driveways.


• A minimum of 7% of the parking lot must belandscaped



A sidewalk provides access from parking lot

Site Diagram:example site layout for retail/mixed-use


Retail/ Mixed Use: Building Guidelines


Purpose:

The building design guideline for retail and mixed use lays the foundation for architecturallyappealing design through scale and orientation. The guideline establishes a rhythm for the build-ings so they effectively communicate their use. It takes into consideration entrances, fenestra-tion, corners, material and color, building scale and massing, awnings, outdoor dining, signage,and building numbers.

Entrances

Purpose:

The pedestrian entrance to the building shall portray the business identity while maintaining an

inviting scale to the pedestrian. Awnings or canopiesmay be used for this purpose.

Application:

• All buildings shall have their principle entranceon the primary elevation and shall provide adirect connection to the sidewalk and street.

• Restaurants may have a series of doors thatopen to provide open air dining.


• Recessed entrances must not exceed 50% ofthe storefront width nor 10’ in depth.

• Service entrances or loading docks shall bedesigned to have minimum impact on the

A corner entrance adds emphasis and draws attention

Axonometric view of retail development



Corners

Purpose:

On corner lots, these corners give prominence to the intersection and add architectural interestwhile addressing the context.

Application:

• Project up to one additional floor higher than adjacent buildings.• Have awnings, balconies, or signs in keeping with the design guidelines.• Have a higher level of detail than any other corner on the building.

Fenestration

Purpose:

The proportions and design of building openings are integral in connecting the building to thepedestrian. The windows should also be used for the business to communicate to the public withstorefront displays that provide visual interest to the pedestrian.

Application:

• Windows should comprise from 25% to 50% of façades higher than ground levelwhich are visible from public right-of-ways.

• All retail buildings shall have a minimum of 75% glass on the ground level.• Traditional elements around windows are permitted such as balconies, shutters and

sills.• No signage shall be adhered to the windows permanently or temporarily except the

name of the business and street address. The name and street address shall take upno more than 10% of the window to which it is adhered.

• Opaque, smoked and reflective glass should be used for accents only.

A corner feature adds emphasis

The building address is clearly visible from the street

primary elevation. Wherever possible, they shall not be located on the primaryelevation.



Material and Color

Purpose:

Quality is an important element of construction. Substandard materials and craftsmanship arenot permitted. The greatest amount architectural detail and interest shall be at the pedestrianlevel. The following standards are the minimum all projects should adhere to:

Application:

• High level of craftsmanship for all details and finishes.• Color should be architecturally appropriate and not detract from adjacent properties.• For storefront designs, attention shall be paid to the details of the window design in

order to promote a connection to the pedestrian.• For storefront designs, attention shall be paid to the details of the window design in

order to promote a connection to the pedestrian.• Predominant exterior building materials as well as accents shall not include the

following: smooth face CMU, metal siding.

Scale and Massing

Purpose:

Attention to scale and massing is important when considering both the impact of the buildingfrom the street as well as the pedestrian experience at the sidewalk. From the street, the buildingshould appear balanced with its surrounding context of buildings and landscape. From the side-walk, the building should consider the human scale, particularly at the ground level where pedes-trians are largely impacted.

Application:

• Major horizontal elements of adjacent buildings such as awnings, cornices, etc. on theprimary elevation, shall be at the same height wherever possible.

• The height of the buildings may be up to 40’.• When buildings are within 200’ of a single-family residence, the building may be up to

35’ in height.• Elevations that are seen from a public right of way must have architectural interest.

Large blank walls are not permitted.• On the primary elevation, an architectural rhythm

of 15’ to 30’ should be established.• On the primary elevations of buildings over 1

story, the ground floor shall be architecturallydistinguished from upper floors to form both anarchitectural base and to create an intimate scalefor the pedestrian.

• Varied roof forms and cornices may beemployed to express the uniqueness of eachdesign.

• The roofs on corner lots should emphasize andenhance the corner.

Retail on two levels adds interest to the facade



Awnings

Purpose:

Awnings allow a business to further define their identity as well as provide shelter from theelements to pedestrians. They add design interest to the streetscape, protect displays from overexposure to the sun, and help cool the building.

Application:

• Awnings or projecting signs above 7’ may be permitted into the right-of-way so longas they do not interfere with trees, utilities, transit shelters or other street furnishings.

• Awnings, signs, or recessed entrances shall be integrated into the design of thebuilding.

• Awnings shall have a framed opening. They should be architecturally consistent with

the rest of the building.• Adjacent awnings or awnings along the same

block should be at the same height whereverpossible.

• Awnings shall not interfere with pedestrianmobility.

• Awnings shall be retractable or open sided.• Vinyl awnings are discouraged.• Internally lit or worn awnings are not permitted.

Variation in awning typeAwnings provide shade along the sidewalk


Outdoor Dining

Purpose:

Outdoor dining allows restaurant patrons to enjoy the open air environment and bustle of publicspaces while enjoying a meal. It also permits restaurant owners to extend their dining rooms andserve a larger capacity.

Application:

• A restaurant may set itself back from the clear zone up to 20’ to make room foroutdoor dining or plazas.

• A restaurant may extend 2’ into the clear zone for small tables.


• A restaurant may install large glazed doors thatcan be opened to the sidewalk for outdoor dining.

Step-down outdoor dining in supplemental zone

Sideyard used for outdoor dining and seating

Minimal space can be used for outdoor dining


Retail/ Mixed Use: Signage Guidelines

Signage Guidelines:

Purpose:


Building Numbers

Application:

• Above the primary elevation entrance.• The business name or address can be permanently adhered or painted on glass



Signage:

Application:






windows provided that it takes up a maximum of 10% of the glass to which it isadhered.

• Signs shall not obscure architectural detailing such as cornices, friezes, columns,

windows, door openings or trim.• One monument sign that is a maximum of 4.5’

high by 5’ wide is permitted by free standingbuildings. All other signs must be approved.



Angled signage is visable from sidewalk and street


Big Box: Site Guidelines

Site Guidelines:

Purpose:

“Big-box” retail can be defined as large-scale retailers, such as Wal-Mart, Kmart, Kroger, Tar-get, Circuit City, or Home Depot, which occupy more than 50,000 square feet and derive theirprofits from high sales volumes. They may operate as stand-alone facilities, or more commonlythey are located in a “power center.” Because big box developments are of a larger scale, it isimportant that site requirements include adequate sidewalks, minimal setbacks, landscaping, screen-ing, and buffereing to enhance the pedestrian experience. The features and spaces should en-hance the building and the center as integral parts of the community fabric. Pedestrian accessi-

Application:

• Within the development, pedestrian orientedpublic spaces and activities must be present.

Site Diagram: yard zones for big box development Site Diagram:example site layout for big box development

bility opens auto-oriented developments to the neighbor-hood, thereby reducing traffic impacts and enabling the de-velopment to project a friendlier, more inviting image.



Yard Setbacks:

Purpose:

Generally referred to as supplemental zone, within privateproperty. Provides an opportunity for a public zone fordining areas or outdoor plazas.

Application:

• Supplemental Zone/Front Yard 0’ - 20’.• Side Yard setback 6’.• Rear Yard setback 6’.• No structures over 12” in width and 36” in

height may be placed within the sight triangle.

Two of the following, at a minimum, shall be included for each development over50,000 SF: patio/seating areas, pedestrian plaza with seating, kiosk areas, waterfeatures, clock towers, or other amenity that adequately enhances such communityand public spaces. Any such areas shall have direct access to the public sidewalknetwork.

• Entrances and parking lots should be configured to be functional andinviting with walkways conveniently tied to logical destinations.

• Bus stops and drop-off/pick-up points should be considered as integral parts of theconfiguration.

• The development may have smaller buildings at the street that screen interior parking.• Pedestrian ways should be anchored by special design features such as towers,


Purpose:

Sidewalks ease pedestrian circulation to amenities andthroughout the Cleveland Avenue corridor.

Application:

• Continuous clear zone of 10’ as minimum.• Plant strip of 5’ as minimum containing lighting

and street trees.• Building Entrance connected to sidewalk.• Site must include interior sidewalk that serves

parking lot and building.Big box development with on street parking

• arcades, porticos, pedestrian light fixtures,bollards, planter walls, and other architec-tural elements that define circulation ways andoutdoor spaces.

• If the structure is over one story, recessing upperstories is encouraged.



Landscaping

Purpose:

Landscaping enhances the experiential quality of the corridor by providing a balance of naturalgreenscape against building and hardscape elements. In addition, landscape can be used todefine and improve the aesthetics of boundaries, gateways, entrances, and special site features.

Application:

• 25 % of the site must be covered with landscape or permeable paving materials.• Landscape should be designed so that 80% coverage occurs after five years.• Landscape design should include a variety of deciduous, evergreen trees, shrubs and

flowering plant species well suited to the local climate.• Where feasible, existing healthy trees on the site of greater than 6” DBH should be

incorporated into the required landscaping of the site.


Purpose:

Screening and buffering maintains the attractiveness of the building while providing for its func-tionality.

Application:

• A 20’ landscaped area must buffer buildingsadjacent to residential zones; areas of parkingmust also be screened with a privacy wall orfence (minimum 6’ height) when adjacent to aresidential use.

• Areas for outdoor storage, truck parking, trashcollection or compaction, loading, or other suchuses shall not be visible from public or privaterights-of-way and shall not be located within 20’of any public street, public, sidewalk or internalpedestrian walkways.


masonry wall, evergreen hedge screen of30” - 42” in height and a minimum of 12” inwidth shall be established in a 8’ minimumplanted buffer.

Vias

Purpose:

Vias connect pedestrians to parking, site amenities, or other building entrances and can encour-age outdoor activity on the site.

Application:

• Be visually connected to the buildings through store front windows and or entrancesor restaurant seating.

• May allow enough room for open air restaurant seating.• Use specially designed elements including paving, lighting, landscape and street

furniture.



Parking

Application:


• Parking decks and garages are permitted, but must use well designed architectural ele-ments that are compatible with the adjacent structure on all elevations that face eitherpublic rights-of-way or other buildings. They should appear to be a horizontally storiedbuilding with active ground level uses.

• There shall be a pedestrian walkway which connects the surface parking lot to thepublic sidewalk.

• Parking areas must be evenly lit and equal to one-half footcandle of light.

• Light spillage onto adjacent residential propertiesshall be reduced by a cut-off luminaire with amaximum of ninety degrees illumination.

• There shall be a continuous landscape bufferwith a minimum of 8’ between parking areas andthe street. An 8’ buffer shall be establishedwhere parking abuts other property lines.

• Parking lots with fifty or more spaces shall bedivided into separate areas with minimum 10’landscape strip. Walkways may cut through thelandscaping.

• One driveway for each development is permittedProperties with more than one front yard whichmay have two driveways.




Path and gateway from street to big box parking

Alleyway providing access between parking lot and retail


Big Box: Building Guidelines


Purpose:

Avoid monotonous expances of large scale development by providing guidelines that adhere tohuman scale.

Entrances

Purpose:

The pedestrian entrance to the building shall portray the business identity while maintaining aninviting scale to the pedestrian. Multiple building entrances reduce walking distances from cars,

Axonometric view of a ‘Big-Box’ development

facilitate pedestrian and bicycle access from public side-walks, and provide convenience. Multiple entrances alsomitigate the effect of the unbroken walls and neglectedareas that often characterize building façades that facebordering land uses. Awnings or canopies may be used forthis purpose.

Application:

• All sides of a principal building that directly facean abutting public or private right of way shallfeature at least one customer entrance.

• Where a principal building directly faces morethan two abutting public or private rights-of-way,this requirement shall apply only to two sides ofthe building, including the side of the buildingfacing the primary street, and another side of thebuilding facing a secondary street.

• Where additional stores will be located in theprincipal building, each such store shall have atleast one exterior customer entrance, which shallconform to the above requirements.

• Each principal building on a site shall haveclearly defined, highly visible customer entrancesfeaturing:

· canopies· porticos· overhangs· recesses/projections· arcades· raised corniced parapets over the door· peaked roof forms· arches



Materials and Colors

Purpose:

Quality is an important element of construction. Substan-dard materials and craftsmanship are not permitted. Thegreatest amount architectural detail and interest shall beat the pedestrian level.

Application:

• High level of craftsmanship for all details andfinishes.

• Color should be architecturally appropriate andnot detract from adjacent properties.

• For storefront designs, attention shall be paid tothe details of the window design in order topromote a connection to the pedestrian.

• For storefront designs, attention shall be paid tothe details of the window design in order topromote a connection to the pedestrian.

• Predominant exterior building materials as wellas accents shall not include the following:smooth face CMU, metal siding.

Scale and Massing

Purpose:

Attention to scale and massing is important when consid-ering both the impact of the building from the street as wellas the pedestrian experience at the sidewalk. Façadesshould be articulated to reduce the massive scale and theuniform, impersonal appearances of large retail buildings

Axonometric view of a mixed-use ‘Big-Box’ development

Fenestration

Purpose:

The proportions and design of building openings are integral in connecting the building to thepedestrian. The windows should also be used for the business to communicate to the public withstorefront displays that provide visual interest to the pedestrian.

Application:

• Windows should comprise from 25 % to 50 % of façades higher than ground levelwhich are visible from public rights-of-way.

• Traditional elements around windows are permitted such as balconies, shutters andsills.

• No signage shall be adhered to the windows permanently or temporarily except thename of the business and street address.

• Thename and street address shall take up no more than 10 % of the window to which

it is adhered.• Opaque, smoked and reflective glass should be

used for accents only.


Secondary Retail/Mixed-Use

Purpose:

The presence of smaller retail stores or residential above ground level retail gives a center a“friendlier” appearance by creating variety, breaking up large expanses, and expanding the rangeof the site’s activities. Windows and window displays of such stores should be used to contributeto the visual interest of exterior façades. The standards presented in this section are directedtoward those situations where additional, smaller stores, with separate, exterior customer en-trances are located in the principal buildings or development site. Additionally, residential usescan be incorporated into the development above smaller ground level retail uses.

Application:

Where principal buildings contain additional, separately owned stores, which occupy less thanfifty thousand (50,000) square feet of gross floor area, with separate, exterior customerentrances:


and provide visual interest that will be consistent with the community’s identity, character, andscale. The resulting scale will ensure a greater likelihood of reuse of structure by subsequenttenants.

Application:

• Developments with façade over 100’ in linear length shall incorporate wallprojections or recesses a minimum of 3’ depth and a minimum of 20 contiguousfeet within each 100’of facade length and shall extend over 20 % of the façade.Developments shall use features such as arcades, display windows, entry areas,awnings along at least 60 % of the façade.

• Rooflines shall be varied with a change in height every 100 linear feet in the buildinglength. Parapets, mansard roofs, gable roofs, hip roofs, or dormers shall be used toconceal flat roofs and roof top equipment from public view.

• Building façades shall include a repeating patterns of the following at intervals of nomore than 30’, either horizontally or vertically: color change; texture change;material module change; or expression of architectural or structural bay through achange in plane no less than 12” in width, such as an offset, reveal, or projecting rib.

• The street level façade of such stores shall betransparent between the height of 3’and 8’above the walkway grade for no less than 60 %of the horizontal length of the building façade ofsuch additional stores.

• Windows shall be recessed and should includevisually prominent sills, shutters, or other suchforms of framing.

• Windows should comprise from 25 % to 50 % offaçades higher than ground level which arevisible from public rights-of-way.

• All retail buildings shall have a minimum of 75 %glass on the ground level.

• Traditional elements around windows arepermitted such as balconies, shutters and sills.

• No signage shall be adhered to the windowspermanently or temporarily except the name ofthe business and street address. The name andstreet address shall take up no more than 10 %of the window to which it is adhered.

• Opaque, smoked and reflective glass should beused for accents only.


Big Box: Signage Guidelines

Signage Guidelines:

Purpose:


Building Numbers

Application:

• Above the primary elevation entrance.• Clearly visible from the sidewalk• Minimum of 6” in height.• Creativity in the design of the number is encouraged.

Signage:

Application:







• Signs shall not obscure architectural detailing such as cornices, friezes, columns,windows, door openings or trim.

• One monument sign that is a maximum of 4.5’high by 5’ wide is permitted by free standingbuildings. All other signs must be approved.



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